Numerous shops rent bicycles, mopeds and motor scooters on Block Island. You can also bring your own bike on the ferry for a few dollars. If you rent, most places provide bike locks, but may not provide helmets. You really should wear a helmet when biking, especially on unfamiliar roads.

Although there are few bike paths, Block Island's roads are lightly trafficked with cars, and most drivers happily share the road with bikers. Here's a suggested bicycle tour itinerary.

Block Island has varied topography. You will have to climb some hills on your bike. A few of them may seem longish and steep if you are not an experienced bicycler, or in moderately good physical condition. But there's no rush! You can rest. You can walk.

Helmets are included in moped and motor scooter rentals. Your rental agreement will stipulate that you may not drive the rented vehicle on unpaved roads, which is a disadvantage on Block Island, as some beaches are reached by unpaved roads.

Most visitors who rent a moped, motor scooter or motorcycle have never ridden one before. They hit the road after only the briefest of lessons from a rental shop. Thus, every summer brings a number of moped accidents, a few of them serious. If you rent a two-wheeled motor vehicle, be particularly cautious, especially after the first hour or two of riding. Accidents often happen soon after you think you've mastered the vehicle and the roads.

Whether you ride a bicycle or a moped, remember to use sunblock on your hands (particularly the backs), feet (especially the tops), legs, arms, neck and any other exposed areas. People not used to riding in bright sun often overlook the fact that the backs of hands and the tops of feet may be exposed to direct sun while riding, and bad sunburn may result.

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